Xabi Alonso could return to Real Madrid as their new manager. Transfer expert Matteo Moretto says the deal is “almost done” with just a few details left to sort out.
From Player to Coach
Alonso knows Real Madrid (3.7 well. He played 236 games for them from 2009 to 2014. During this time, he won La Liga once, the Copa del Rey twice, and the Champions League in 2014 – known as La Décima.
Since becoming Bayer Leverkusen’s manager in October 2022, Alonso has done great work. His team went 43 games without losing in the 2023-24 season. This broke their old record of 24 games. They scored about 2.35 goals per game and had the best defence in the Bundesliga, letting in just 0.78 goals per match.
Why Madrid Wants Him
Real Madrid isn’t just looking for someone to win trophies. They want a manager who understands the club and can handle the pressure. Alonso fits the bill.
Players respect him because he was once one of them. As a coach, he’s shown he can adapt his tactics and has clear ideas about how soccer should be played. His Leverkusen team uses a 3-4-2-1 formation. They press high, pass forward quickly, and keep the ball well.
Real Madrid sees him as their future. This makes sense with young players like Jude Bellingham (21), Eduardo Camavinga (22), and Arda Güler (20) in the squad.
Changes Ahead
If Alonso takes over, Real Madrid might play differently. With Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo already there, the team could have a very strong attack.
There’s talk that Alonso might want to bring in players he knows. One name mentioned is Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, whom Alonso worked with at Real Sociedad B.
Looking to the Future
Carlo Ancelotti has done well, winning two Champions Leagues with Madrid in his second spell. But the club thinks it’s time for a change. They want to focus on young players and new ideas.
Club president Florentino Pérez is said to admire Alonso’s smart approach to soccer. Now, he seems ready to bring him back to Madrid with a plan for the future.
